"I am also asking for you to do something hard, that I am going to struggle with, but it's the right thing to do. Please pray for those that did this.

"There is no money in our church and no silver or gold bits like candlesticks. We know that sweets and a sleeping bag have gone so they must be very low and very lost to steal from our church."

The statement was posted on Wednesday morning, after church members realised a break-in had happened.

Police today (Thursday) appealed for information and branded the theft at the church, based close to the busy A6110 Wortley ring road, as "appalling".

The church statement added: "I'm not talking about forgiveness, that has to start with them wanting it (which is different from being 'let off').

"I ask that you pray for them to find a better place in their life and that they find a way to a life where they would give instead of stealing.

"Pray that they find the help that they almost certainly need."

The church said the break-in could also affect Wortley's local food bank stores.

Sergeant Chris Craven said: "It is appalling that someone would target a place of worship in this way.

"This happened near close to two busy roads (the church is on Branch Road and very close to the A6110 ring road) and I would appeal to anyone living in the area who saw anything suspicious to get in contact.

"Likewise if anyone is offered any of the items mentioned in a deal that sounds 'too good to be true' then call police."